Shubman Gill Hints at Anshul Kamboj's Potential Debut in Fourth Test Against England
Kamboj's Debut on the Horizon
Manchester [UK], July 22: As the Indian cricket team prepares for the fourth Test against England, captain Shubman Gill has indicated that pacer Anshul Kamboj is on the verge of making his international debut. The decision may come down to a choice between Kamboj and Prasidh Krishna for the final spot in the playing XI.
With the series currently at 2-1 in favor of England, India is determined to deliver a strong performance to equalize the series. The absence of all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy due to injury, along with left-arm bowler Arshdeep Singh missing the fourth Test, has opened the door for Kamboj, a 24-year-old right-arm seam bowler from Haryana.
Gill praised Kamboj's skills, noting that the team has had ample opportunity to observe him during India's A tour in England prior to this series. He emphasized the straightforward communication with Kamboj, stating, 'We have seen him enough. The skill set he brings is exactly what we need in this team. He is here because we believe he can help us win.'
He also mentioned that Akash Deep will not be available for the fourth Test. Kamboj has demonstrated his ability to maintain traditional bowling lengths and generate movement, having previously impressed during the unofficial Tests against England Lions, where he took four wickets in one match and contributed significantly with the bat.
In the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season, Kamboj emerged as a leading wicket-taker, claiming 34 wickets in just six matches. He also made headlines in the Duleep Trophy, becoming only the third Indian to take all ten wickets in an innings against Kerala. His First-Class cricket statistics show 79 wickets in 24 matches, with an impressive average of 22.88.
Gill acknowledged the challenges of fielding a different bowling lineup in each match but expressed that he had anticipated this situation and planned accordingly. 'Anshul is very close to making his debut. We will decide tomorrow between him and Prasidh for the final selection,' he added.
Prasidh Krishna's performance in the series has been inconsistent, with six wickets at an average of 55.16 and best figures of 3/128, showcasing both brilliance and costly overs.